What These Places Are
The Embassy of Germany in Kathmandu, in the Lazimpat district, supports the diplomatic, economic and cultural relationship between Nepal and Germany. It manages bilateral cooperation, supports development initiatives and provides consular services to German and Nepali citizens. Information is available from the Embassy of Germany Kathmandu.
Pashupatinath Temple stands on the banks of the Bagmati River and is one of the world’s most revered Hindu shrines, dedicated to Lord Shiva. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a centre for religious ceremonies, festivals and traditional rituals, drawing thousands of pilgrims and tourists each year. Its centuries-old pagoda architecture offers a view of Kathmandu’s religious and cultural life (Nepal Tourism Board).
History
The Embassy and Nepal–Germany relations
Germany established diplomatic relations with Nepal in 1958 and opened its embassy in Kathmandu in 1963. Early German assistance included technical and financial support, including the creation of the Technical Training Institute and contributions to industrial development.
The embassy has hosted state visits and facilitated bilateral agreements. German development cooperation in Nepal focuses on energy, health, agriculture and post-disaster reconstruction, particularly after the 2015 earthquakes.
Cultural ties include the Goethe-Zentrum Kathmandu, German-language programmes and support for educational exchanges. Germany is Nepal’s fourth-largest export destination, with trade in machinery, textiles, tea and spices. A longstanding investment protection agreement underpins business relations.
Pashupatinath Temple
Established in the 5th century, Pashupatinath is known for its gold-plated roofs, intricate woodwork and sprawling temple complex. It plays an important role in Hindu spirituality, especially during Maha Shivaratri. The temple’s ghats are central to Hindu funeral rites and are associated with the spiritual journey and the cycle of life and death.
What to See and Do
At Pashupatinath, visitors can see the temple complex, its golden spires and ritual activity along the Bagmati River. The ghats are used for Hindu funeral rites, and visitors may observe cremation ceremonies from a respectful distance. Non-Hindus may visit the temple grounds and outer courtyards but cannot enter the inner sanctum.
Major festivals include:
- Maha Shivaratri The largest annual celebration, with nightlong worship, vigils, music and prayers.
- Teej A women’s festival marked by prayers and fasting.
For photography, the suggested subjects include sunrise or sunset over the golden spires, activity along the Bagmati River and festival scenes. Photography is allowed in outer areas but prohibited inside the main temple.
Practical Visiting Information
Embassy of Germany
- Address Embassy of Germany, Lazimpat, Kathmandu, Nepal
- Phone +977 1 441 81 71
- Email [email protected]
- Website https://kathmandu.diplo.de
- Visiting hours Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM–12:00 PM, by appointment only
All consular services require an advance online appointment through the official website. An appointment confirmation is emailed after booking; no physical ticket is required. Walk-in appointments are not accepted.
Services include:
- Visa processing for Germany and the Schengen area
- Passport issuance and renewal for German citizens
- Notarial and document authentication services
- Emergency assistance for German nationals
Service guidelines and document requirements are available on the official embassy website.
Pashupatinath Temple
- Location 6 km east of central Kathmandu, near Tribhuvan International Airport (Google Maps)
- Visiting hours Daily, 4:00 AM–10:00 PM
- Entry fees
- Nepali citizens: Free
- SAARC nationals: NPR 100–500; check for current rates
- Foreign tourists: NPR 1,000 (approximately USD 8.50)
- Tickets Available at the entrance or online through the Nepal Tourism Board
Certified guides fluent in English and other languages are available. For real-time updates on visiting hours, ticketing and guided tours, the guide recommends the Audiala app or the Official Pashupatinath Temple website.
Tips
For embassy appointments, book online in advance, particularly during peak travel seasons. The embassy is accessible by taxi or local transport, but security checks are mandatory; arrive well before the scheduled appointment. Morning visits can be combined with nearby sightseeing.
At Pashupatinath, modest attire is required: cover shoulders and knees, and remove shoes before entering the premises. Restrooms, drinking water, cafes and souvenir shops are available. Some areas may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues; ramps are provided in select spots.
Early morning or late afternoon is suggested for a quieter temple visit. Expect crowds during major festivals.
Nearby Places
Near the Embassy
- Garden of Dreams A historic garden a short walk from the embassy.
- Thamel District A popular area for shopping and dining.
- Pashupatinath Temple A major cultural site a short drive away.
Near Pashupatinath Temple
- Boudhanath Stupa An iconic Buddhist site, 5–7 km away.
- Kathmandu Durbar Square A historic royal complex with museums and temples.
- Gokarna Forest A green retreat suited to hiking and picnics.
FAQ
Embassy of Germany
What are the embassy’s visiting hours?
Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, by appointment only.
How do I book an appointment?
Online through the official embassy website.
Are walk-in appointments accepted?
No. All visits require a pre-booked appointment.
Where is the embassy located?
In Lazimpat, Kathmandu, Nepal.
Pashupatinath Temple
Are non-Hindus allowed in the temple?
Non-Hindus can visit the outer courtyards but are not permitted inside the main sanctum.
Is there an entrance fee for Nepali citizens?
No. Entry is free for Nepali citizens.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Certified guides fluent in English and other languages are available.
Is photography allowed?
Photography is prohibited inside the main temple and permitted in most outer areas.
Can visitors observe cremation ceremonies?
Yes, from a respectful distance.
